What's Inside a Canon Lens?

While camera bodies get most of the hype when it comes to technological advancements, modern lenses are no slouches. It takes a lot of careful design, engineering, and manufacturing to fit a bevy of electronics, glass, and motors to create la ens that is merely functional, let alone one that reliably produces high-quality images. What all goes into a modern lens? This neat video takes apart a Canon RF lens to show you what is inside. 

Coming to you from Gordon Laing, this interesting video breaks down a Canon RF 28mm f/2.8 STM lens to show you what is inside. I was particularly pleased to see Laing choose this lens to examine, as it is especially small, measuring just an inch (24.7 mm) long and weighing only 4.2 oz (120 g). When you consider the fact that Canon managed to fit 8 optical elements in 6 groups, 7 diaphragm blades, an autofocus motor, and all the lens' electronics in the small space, it really puts into perspective just how clever modern lens design is and the sort of problem engineers have to solve en route to creating these devices. Plus, it is simply cool to see what is inside the gear we use every day. Check out the video above for the full rundown from Laing. 

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Alex Cooke is a Cleveland-based portrait, events, and landscape photographer. He holds an M.S. in Applied Mathematics and a doctorate in Music Composition. He is also an avid equestrian.

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1 Comment

Amazing how so much is packed into such a miniscule lens with high optical performance.
Looks like it eats the similar Nikon's lunch in optical quality for less money.